Students think computing jobs are just for geeks

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Students think computing jobs are just for \'geeks\'

Students think computing jobs are just for 'geeks'

TEACHERS and schools need to dispel the impression among students that computing jobs are just for geeks and nerds, a major study has recommended. The belief is particularly strong among female students who participated in research to find out how more young people can be attracted to subjects relevant to computing and technology.

It was carried out for the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and Discover Science and Engineering, who want to see more people to pursue careers in these sectors.

A key finding among the second level students who took part was that, while these were perceived as careers for smart people and offering high salaries, there were a number of negative connotations that needed to be overcome.

"Predominantly, that it is an environment for 'geeks' and 'nerds', and it is a stressful, boring and an isolating work environment," said the study from Ipsos MORI.

In order to cross those barriers, particularly with those who have never considered these careers, it was recommended that the message needs to be conveyed by male and female 'heroes' to counteract the 'geeks' and 'nerds' stereotype.

But as well as young people themselves, the researchers suggest that guidance counsellors, science and maths teachers need to be targeted by a communications programme involving websites, career fairs, science events, and the media.

Pat O'Connor, Higher Education Authority head of computing skills, said that more good people need to be studying relevant topics for tens of thousands of potential jobs in new technologies to be created in the coming years.

"These are well paid jobs across a variety of fields and will be filled by people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Stereotypes are holding us back," Mr O'Connor said.

The research also found that the perceived difficulty of Leaving Certificate science subjects was a challenge which needs to be addressed.

The report said funding and resourcing difficulties are a key barrier for schools to facilitate more practical work and greater exposure to science is needed for students at a younger age.

The study also reported belief among students, parents and teachers that capable students are dropping higher level Leaving Certificate maths because of the disproportionate amount of study time required compared to other subjects. Suggestions were made to shorten the curriculum and review how maths is taught.

However, the researchers said there were mixed views on whether extra points should be awarded for grades in higher level maths, with guidance counsellors and others believing it put too much emphasis on certain skills, inferring that language or creative skills are less important.